Nigerian troops have recorded fresh successes against terrorist groups operating in the North East, following coordinated military operations that led to the killing of several fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and the recovery of dangerous weapons in Borno State.
Security sources disclosed that troops under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) carried out a surprise dawn attack on Wednesday at Bula Dalo, a known terrorist enclave. The operation was aimed at weakening insurgent activities and denying them safe havens in the area.
According to the sources, the troops launched the operation in the early hours of the morning, catching the terrorists off guard. Several ISWAP fighters were neutralized during the encounter, while others fled into nearby bushes with gunshot wounds.
During the operation, soldiers recovered a number of weapons and ammunition believed to have been used by the terrorists to carry out attacks on military targets and civilian communities. Items recovered include four AK-47 rifles, a PKT anti-aircraft gun, a Rocket Propelled Gun (RPG), and a multiple grenade launcher.
The security source also revealed that the troops destroyed several life-support structures used by the terrorists. These structures included makeshift shelters, storage facilities, and other items that helped the insurgents survive and plan attacks in the area.
In a follow-up operation at Garno terrorist camp, troops recovered a large quantity of PKT anti-aircraft ammunition. The camp was also damaged, further reducing the operational strength of the terrorists.
Military officials described the operations as a major setback for ISWAP’s logistics and fighting ability in the region. They said the destruction of weapons and camps would make it harder for the group to regroup and launch new attacks.
Borno State has remained the epicentre of insurgency in Nigeria’s North East for over a decade. The activities of Boko Haram and ISWAP have led to the loss of thousands of lives and the displacement of millions of people. Despite recent gains by the military, the terrorists have continued to launch attacks, especially on military locations and vulnerable communities.
In another development, troops of Sector 2 at Sabon Gari came under attack by ISWAP fighters in the early hours of Thursday. The attackers were reportedly supported by multiple armed drones, showing a growing level of sophistication in their operations.
The security source explained that the terrorists briefly breached part of the military defensive position during the attack. However, gallant troops responded swiftly and forcefully, pushing back the attackers and regaining full control of the area.
“The soldiers stood their ground and denied the terrorists any further gains,” the source said.
The clash led to casualties among some soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), a local security group that supports the military in fighting insurgency. An excavator and a lowbed vehicle were also damaged during the drone attack.
Although the exact number of casualties was not disclosed, military sources confirmed that injured personnel were evacuated and are receiving medical attention.
The use of armed drones by ISWAP has raised concerns among security experts, who say the group is adapting its tactics to challenge military positions. However, officials insist that Nigerian troops are adjusting their strategies to counter the evolving threat.
Security officials said exploitation of the areas where the clashes occurred is still ongoing. Troops are combing surrounding locations to ensure no terrorists are hiding nearby and to prevent further attacks.
They added that the military remains committed to denying terrorists freedom of movement and protecting local communities from harm.
Operation HADIN KAI is the main military operation fighting insurgency in the North East. In recent months, the operation has recorded several successes, including the killing of top terrorist commanders, rescue of kidnapped victims, and recovery of arms and ammunition.
The Federal Government has repeatedly assured Nigerians that the military is intensifying efforts to end terrorism and restore lasting peace to the region. Authorities have also called on residents to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
As operations continue across Borno and neighbouring states, residents remain hopeful that sustained military pressure will further weaken terrorist groups and allow displaced persons to return safely to their homes.